UM Watching RB Closely

Mike Bakas

09/06/2003

The Woodlands, Texas standout running back Samson Taylor had a successful start to his senior season last Friday night. "We played in the Alamo Dome and came out with a 35-20 win," Taylor said. "It was a nice break from playing in the typical Houston heat this time of year."

Taylor ran for 69 yards and two touchdowns. He hopes to get a few more opportunities this week.

"We got the win and that's what matters most," he said. "It's just that we were in the redzone a lot and the chances for big runs weren't there."

Taylor, a full academic qualifier, and his teammates will take on Kingwood on Friday night. The 6-foot, 212-pounder has also been tackling various recruiting calls this week.

The talented running back talked more about his conversation with the UM coaches.

"They called and said that their running backs coach will be calling next week and that he will come watch me play later this season," he said. "He said (they will take) maybe three (running backs) this year."

Taylor said he's hoping one of his future offers comes from Miami.

"Hopefully they offer," he said. "I like them. They're an aggressive team. They have great athletes and they have a lot of team speed and that's what wins. I really like Miami."

In addition to the Hurricanes, Taylor's considering several other programs.

"Notre Dame, UCLA, Colorado," he said. "I still like a lot of them right now. I'll probably start narrowing it down in October and decide where I'll be going for my visits. I think Miami will be one of them, UCLA. I like schools with big tradition. I just want to focus on my senior season right now though."